AIT Introduces Microsoft WindowsBbased Analyzer Gateway Software Application that Connects Any Process Analyzer in Product Line

OLE for Process Control (OPC) has emerged as a standard communications protocol within distributed control systems. Based on Ethernet TCP/IP and Distributed Component Object Model (DCOM) technologies, OPC allows client applications access to plant floor data from multiple devices in a consistent manner.

AIT has introduced a Microsoft Windows-based Analyzer Gateway software application that connects any process analyzer in the product line (FTIR, PIONIR, MGA, CS 200, and Process GC) to an OPC client. The 32-bit software complies with the OPC 2.0 Data Access Standard, supports tag browsing by the client, and can be operated as either a local or remote Ethernet-based OPC server.

The fully bi-directional Analyzer Gateway software also supports an optional, simultaneous Modbus RTU Slave connection. This functionality allows a customer to integrate a process analyzer into an existing Modbus network and seamlessly switch over when they are ready to migrate to OPC.

The Analyzer Gateway software can reside locally on the analyzer data station, or operate remotely on a separate DCS Interface computer. When operating locally, the Analyzer Gateway software runs as a separate process in parallel with the data station application. A short null modem cable connects the data station’s output port to the Analyzer Gateway’s input port.

In the alternative DCS Interface configuration, the Analyzer Gateway software runs remotely on a separate computer that connects to the analyzer using a serial cable, and to the OPC client using Ethernet cabling. This topology is used when a Windows-based computer is not required for normal operation of the analyzer (PIONIR 1024, FXi 931D).